Is IntelliCAD® A Good Alternative?

Carlson Software now includes a copy of the IntelliCAD engine with each copy of their software so that users who have planned to install Carlson on top of their AutoCAD®-based program can try it out, do a comparison and judge for themselves whether it is a good option for their office. You can see the history, a comparison to AutoCAD and a 5-minute video demonstration of IntelliCAD by following the links.

I have been told that the current IntelliCAD platform (version 6.4) contains approximately 70% of the functionality of AutoCAD. Also, some commands currently run slower than in AutoCAD and some will run faster than in AutoCAD. The next major release will be IntelliCAD 7 which will have ObjectARX type abilities and will run faster.

For current AutoCAD users who dive into every new feature or push customization to its limits...
I doubt you'd be happy with the IntelliCAD version at this time because some of those commands are missing or have legacy behavior.

For current AutoCAD users not as invested in the bells and whistles...
IntelliCAD will probably be a fantastic, cost effective alternative to your AutoCAD.

The ideal situation(s) for IntelliCAD?

• Offices currently using AutoCAD LT as a "gap-filler" instead of more costly CAD licenses. Why? Because IntelliCAD supports LISP files, 3D data, XREFs, Images and several other AutoCAD functions that are not included in AutoCAD LT
• Survey/inspection field crews using an IntelliCAD version on laptops to be taken out of the office
• Offices needing a low-cost CAD option for project managers
• Offices needing short-term CAD licenses for summer interns

Visit our IntelliCAD with Carlson software page and our More About IntelliCAD page to learn more.